Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Apo Island is accessible year-round. Prepare for a wet boat crossing and bring cash, as there are no ATMs on the island.
Getting there
Getting to the island requires a boat ride. You can join a tour or take public transit via Malatapay Wharf.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus: Ceres bus from Dumaguete City bound for Bayawan or Siaton, disembarking at the Malatapay Livestock Market in Zamboanguita. | 30-40 minutes | 40-50 PHP | Tell the driver to drop you off at Malatapay Wharf. From the highway, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the boat staging area. |
| Boat: Public or chartered outrigger pump boat from Malatapay Wharf directly to the Apo Island beach. | 30-45 minutes | 300 PHP public one-way, or 2000-3500 PHP private roundtrip | Public boats wait to fill up. The crossing can be very splashy; use a dry bag for electronics. |
| Tour: Organized dive or snorkel day tours departing from dive resorts in Dauin or Dumaguete. | 40-60 minutes by larger resort boat | 1500 - 2500 PHP for snorkeling, 5000+ PHP for diving | The most convenient option. Usually includes direct boat transfers, gear rental, lunch, and all environmental fees. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to May. The sea is calmest during these months. The crossing can be choppy at other times. The boat ride takes 30 to 45 minutes.
What to bring
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Wearing gloves while diving or snorkeling is strictly prohibited.
Do not touch the corals or sea turtles.
How the day runs
Most visitors spend 6 to 8 hours completing a day trip from Dumaguete.
A typical day covering the marine sanctuary and a brief village walk.
- Depart Dumaguete
Take a tour boat or bus to Malatapay Wharf.
- Arrive and Register
Pay environmental fees and secure a local guide.
- Snorkel at Chapel Point
Swim in the turtle sanctuary. Go early for the best visibility.
- Lunch
Eat at a local carenderia or enjoy your tour's provided meal.
- Village Walk
Stroll the main village strip or visit Lagoon Beach.
- Return Trip
Take the boat back to the mainland before afternoon swells pick up.
Important Sanctuary Rules
The marine sanctuary enforces strict rules to protect the reef. Chasing, touching, or riding sea turtles is illegal and carries heavy fines. Boats must use designated mooring buoys instead of anchoring on the reef.
You cannot take shells, sand, or coral pieces as souvenirs. Always use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent chemical damage to the corals. Read Packing List for packing advice.
Easiest way to do it
Apo Island Day Tour from Dumaguete with Lunch & Transfer
8 h 4.0 (5)
- Lunch
- Boat Ride to Apo Island
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$145per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How to get to Apo Island from Dumaguete?
You can book a direct tour or take public transport. For DIY travel, catch a Ceres bus bound for Bayawan or Siaton. Disembark at the Malatapay Livestock Market (40-50 PHP, 30-40 minutes). Walk 10-15 minutes to Malatapay Wharf and hire a boat to the island.
Can you swim with turtles at Apo Island?
Yes, you can swim with wild green and hawksbill sea turtles. The best spot is Chapel Point. Snorkelers must hire a local guide and wear a life jacket inside the designated marine sanctuary.
Are there ATMs on Apo Island?
No, there are no ATMs on the island. You must bring cash in small PHP denominations to pay for local meals, environmental fees, and guide services.